Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s packed with flavor and feeds the whole family? This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole brings together two hearty favorites—meatloaf and loaded mashed potatoes—into one irresistible, oven-baked dish. It’s cozy, filling, and just downright delicious.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I couldn’t decide between mashed potatoes or meatloaf… so I combined both! Let’s just say it was an instant hit at the dinner table—and now, it’s on repeat in my weekly meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking to stretch leftovers into a second meal, this casserole has you covered.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. You likely already have most of the ingredients on hand, and it comes together in just over an hour. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—swap proteins, mix up the cheese, or sneak in some veggies for a twist. This is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Craving more comfort food recipes? Check out This Is Not Diet Food’s version for their spin on the classic, or get inspired by the Pioneer Woman’s cozy casserole ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Satisfying

This isn’t just your average meatloaf. By layering creamy mashed potatoes on top and finishing with melty cheddar cheese and crispy crumbled bacon, you get a dinner that’s rich, indulgent, and downright comforting. Every bite is packed with savory beef, fluffy potatoes, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness.

Whether you’re serving picky eaters or hungry teens, this recipe satisfies every craving. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to go back for seconds… and maybe thirds.

Made with Simple Ingredients

You don’t need anything fancy to make this dish shine. In fact, everything you need is probably already in your pantry or fridge:

• Ground beef or a beef/pork blend

• Breadcrumbs

• Eggs

• Milk

• Ketchup

• Garlic & onion powder

• Mashed potatoes

• Cheddar cheese

• Bacon

No expensive ingredients or last-minute store runs. Just good, honest ingredients that come together in the most delicious way.

Want to save even more time? Use instant mashed potatoes like Idahoan—they work perfectly when you’re in a hurry.

Beginner-Friendly Prep

Even if you’re new to cooking, don’t worry—this recipe is incredibly forgiving. You don’t need any fancy kitchen tools or techniques. If you can stir, spread, and bake, you can make this casserole.

Everything happens in a single baking dish. Less mess, fewer dishes, more time to relax while it bakes in the oven.

Easy to Customize

This dish is super adaptable to whatever you’ve got on hand or your dietary needs:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork.

• Make it vegetarian with a lentil loaf base.

• Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.

• Try it with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

It’s one of those recipes that gets better the more you make it your own.

For more meatloaf twists, check out Tornadough Alli’s take on Loaded Meatloaf Casserole—another cozy spin on this family favorite.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you need and why it matters. No surprises—just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in the most delicious way.

For the Meatloaf Base

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
  A hearty, flavorful foundation. You can also use a mix of beef and pork for added richness.

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
  Helps bind everything together and gives the meatloaf structure.

• 1 egg
  Acts as the glue to hold your meatloaf mix together.

• ½ cup ketchup
  Adds a little sweetness and tang to balance the savory elements.

• ½ cup milk
  Keeps the meatloaf moist and tender.

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  Adds that deep, umami flavor that makes your meatloaf taste just right.

• 1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper
  Classic seasoning combo—essential for flavor.

• 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp onion powder
  Brings that savory punch without having to chop anything!

For the Mashed Potato Topping

• 3 cups mashed potatoes
  Fresh or instant—just make sure they’re creamy and well-seasoned.

• ¼ cup melted butter
  Rich and silky—you’ll taste the difference.

• ½ cup sour cream
  Adds tang and makes the potatoes extra creamy.

• ½ cup milk
  Helps achieve the perfect consistency.

• 1 tsp garlic powder
  Adds a mellow depth of flavor to the mash.

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  Season to your preference—don’t skip this part!

Toppings

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  Melts beautifully and adds that cheesy pull we all love.

• 6 slices cooked, crumbled bacon
  Smoky, salty, and crispy—it’s the “loaded” part of the dish.

• 2 tbsp chopped green onions
  A fresh pop of color and mild bite to finish it off.

How to Make Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

Let’s walk through this step by step. I promise—it’s simpler than it sounds and totally worth it!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

2. Make the Meatloaf Base

• In a large bowl, combine:
  ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Mix everything together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Press into the Pan

• Spread the meat mixture evenly into your greased baking dish.

• Press it down gently with your hands or a spatula to form a smooth, flat layer.

• Pop it in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center.

4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

• While the meatloaf is baking, make your mashed potatoes.

• In a bowl, combine:
  mashed potatoes, melted butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Stir until creamy and smooth. Adjust the milk for your desired texture.

💡 Tip: If using instant mashed potatoes, follow the package instructions but reduce the liquid slightly so they’re thick enough to spread.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• Carefully remove the meatloaf from the oven.

• Spread the mashed potatoes over the top—go slow to avoid breaking the meat base.

• Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon for that irresistible “loaded” topping.

6. Final Bake

• Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Once out of the oven, top with chopped green onions.

• Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting layers of flavor!

🧡 This dish is even better the next day—hello, leftovers!

What to Serve with This Recipe

Looking to round out your dinner? Here are a few simple, crowd-pleasing options that pair perfectly with this rich and hearty casserole.

Drinks:

• Sweet Tea – A Southern classic that balances the savoriness.

• Cold Beer – Pairs great with bacon and cheddar.

• Lemonade – Refreshing and kid-friendly.

Sides:

• Steamed Green Beans – Adds color and a little crunch.

• Buttered Corn – Sweet, simple, and always a hit.

• Side Salad – Keeps things fresh and light.

Desserts:

• Apple Crisp – Warm and spiced—perfect fall pairing.

• Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic comfort finish.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe? You can make it your own! Here are a few easy tweaks and swaps to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Turkey or Pork Variation

Not a fan of beef? No problem!

• Use ground turkey for a leaner option.

• Or go for a beef-pork mix to add extra flavor and moisture.

Tip: When using lean meats like turkey, add a splash more milk or an extra egg yolk to keep things juicy.

Gluten-Free Version

Need to skip the gluten? Here’s how:

• Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free oats (quick-cooking work best).

• Or try almond flour for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.

Be sure to check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free too!

Veggie Boost

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? It’s easy.

• Mix in grated zucchini, shredded carrots, or chopped mushrooms right into the meatloaf mixture.

• Adds moisture, nutrients, and a little hidden goodness!

Cheese Lovers’ Dream

If you can never have too much cheese:

• Stir some extra shredded cheddar or mozzarella into your mashed potatoes.

• Top with Parmesan before baking for a crispy, golden finish.

Cheese in the mash = next-level comfort.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? You’re in luck—this casserole stores and reheats like a dream.

Room Temperature

• Don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours after baking.

• After that, pop it in the fridge or freezer to keep it fresh.

Refrigeration Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the microwave for quick meals, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes for a crispier finish.

Freezing Instructions

Want to prep ahead? Here’s how:

• You can freeze this fully assembled, unbaked, or after baking (just skip the green onion topping).

• Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake or reheat as directed.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are a few quick tips to guarantee casserole success:

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—160°F (71°C) is the sweet spot.

• Let the meatloaf layer rest for 5–10 minutes before spreading the potatoes.

• Instant mashed potatoes work, but fresh mash tastes best.

• Spread potatoes gently so they don’t mix into the meat.

• Pre-cook bacon until crispy—no one likes soggy bacon bits!

FAQs

Here are a few quick answers to questions we often get about this dish:

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes! Just make sure they’re thick, creamy, and well-seasoned.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, just add a bit more seasoning or moisture to balance the lean meat.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

Try soy sauce or a mix of balsamic vinegar and ketchup for a similar flavor.

Conclusion

This Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is more than a meal—it’s a hug on a plate. It’s rich, satisfying, and so easy to throw together on a busy night. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, stocking the freezer, or simply craving something cozy and indulgent, this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole delivers comfort in every bite.

One of the best things about this recipe? The Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is completely family-friendly and makes amazing leftovers. From the cheesy mashed potato topping to the flavorful meatloaf base, this casserole checks every box for an easy dinner win.

If you’re new to casseroles, this Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect place to start—it’s practically foolproof, even for beginners.

So go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a homemade Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole that tastes like comfort, care, and something worth coming home to. 💛

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